S.E. Hinton

Susan Eloise Hinton began writing The Outsiders at age 15, publishing it at 18.

Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, she was inspired to write by her dissatisfaction with existing young adult literature.

The Outsiders, published in 1967, revolutionized the genre with its gritty realism and relatable characters.

Hinton's work has since become both celebrated and controversial, being taught in some schools while banned in others.

Her novels continue to be widely read and have had a lasting impact on young adult fiction, challenging perceptions of what the genre can achieve.